The Logs

The System

We are not sure exactly how Air-Lock logs were invented. Just what reasoning lead the inventor to bore a hole into the center of a green log remains a mystery. Whether this action proved his theory or his observation of the results led him to consider the possible applications will never be known. What is known, however, is that the hollow log is definitely better. A hollow log dries from the inside and outside, allowing the log to shrink with less cracking than a solid log. Eureka!

Air-Lock logs are made from Montana Lodge Pole Pine harvested using environmentally correct practices which yield high quality logs. This standard is assured by our historic quality control procedures. Logs are brought from the forest to the mill. First, the bark is removed and the hole is bored through the center of each log. The corner extension remains solid, and when properly sealed,  a dead air space is created in the log wall system. The hollow log dries faster, checking is minimized, the log is lighter for handling and shipping, and the hole provides a natural conduit for electric wires. Using properly seasoned logs minimizes any problem due to shrinking, twisting or warping, which normally occurs when green material is used.

After seasoning, the dry logs are mounted on large lathes which turn them to an exact diameter; then a specially designed machine cuts a tongue and groove, which assures weather-tight construction. Each log is pre-cut and numbered to fit precisely in your particular plan. The log construction details act as a map for each wall showing the exact location of each log. There is very little cutting required on the job. Finally, every log is checked before loading and shipping to your building site.